San Telmo is generally safe to walk around during the day, particularly in popular areas like Calle Defensa, Plaza Dorrego, and the San Telmo Market, but caution is necessary due to risks of theft and muggings. While a popular tourist spot, visitors should remain vigilant against pickpockets and bag-snatching, especially in crowded areas.
What is the safest neighbourhood in Buenos Aires? The neighbourhoods we have highlighted in this guide are generally among the safest areas of Buenos Aires. In particular, from our experience and everything we have seen and read, Palermo and Recoleta are the most safe.
For those hesitant to visit Argentina due to safety concerns, we firmly believe these worries should not stop you. Argentina is generally a safe country to visit as a tourist. Whilst there are higher risks of theft and petty crime, if you take the proper precautions, you should be completely fine.
How Walkable Is San Telmo? - South America Travel Pros
Do and don'ts in Argentina?
DON'T yawn or eat in public (on the street) – it's considered very rude. DON'T make the “OK” or thumb's up gesture – they are both considered vulgar. DON'T expect social occasions to begin on time – it's actually considered rude to arrive for a party on time.
Can I brush my teeth with the water in Buenos Aires?
Q: Can I brush my teeth with tap water in Buenos Aires? A: Yes, using tap water for brushing your teeth is generally considered safe in Buenos Aires, as the water is treated for personal hygiene purposes. If you have particularly sensitive digestion, using purified or bottled water is an option for added peace of mind.
Plain ole casual casual is out; shorts are rarely seen in the city. Many of the finer restaurants require men to have coat and tie. For women pants suits are acceptable. Don't expect to find retaurants bustling at our traditional dinner hour of 8, or even 9PM.
What is the best area to stay in Buenos Aires as a tourist?
Palermo Soho. Soho at a glance: Widely regarded as the best place to stay and I agree. Palermo holds the trophy as the best area to stay in Buenos Aires as a whole. While downtown is a cacophony of noise and activity day and night, the leafy streets of Palermo are a quieter and charming respite.
Although Argentina has no official language, the most widely spoken in the country is Spanish, which differs slightly from the variety used in Spain. English is also spoken along with more than 20 other languages.
Avoid visiting vulnerable neighbourhoods (villa miseria) in major cities, including in Buenos Aires, even if they are in tourist zones. Violence and organized crime are prevalent in these areas and police assistance is very limited.
San Telmo, one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, has a unique charm. Its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and urban art give it a bohemian air that captivates both tourists and locals. If you're planning a visit during the day, here are some must-do activities in this porteño neighborhood.
But, there are other measures you can take to prevent being pickpocketing and/or being mugged. Simply DO NOT use your phone on the street or sidewalk. If you're calling an Uber, for example, go into a convenience store and call it from inside of there.
Salads and fruit are fine to eat, even if they have been washed, but only in big cities. In more remote places, avoid anything that could have been washed as the water here isn't drinkable.
Insect-borne diseases are common in the north of Argentina and as far south as Buenos Aires. These include dengue, chikungunya and zika virus. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor before you leave. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.
Centro & Recoleta - Ideal for those staying only for a few days and wanting to be in the most convenient location. San Telmo - Those who want a bit more 'back in time' experience. Tigre - Ideal for those who want to be close to the city but avoid the busy city life. Better suited for those staying long term.
Is San Telmo one of Buenos Aires' famous neighborhoods popular among tourists?
With its cobblestone streets and faded elegance, this central neighborhood is a favorite for locals and tourists alike, and for good reason: as one of the first neighborhoods in the city, walking through San Telmo is like walking through the streets of old Buenos Aires.
Sunday is the busiest day, with the biggest number of stalls open, but also large numbers of visitors, so the best day to visit might be on a Saturday. The market's open 10.30am to 7.30pm from Tuesday to Friday and 9am to 8pm on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays.
Transnational criminal groups based in other South American countries operate in Argentina as well. Notably, Mexican and Colombian cartels are linked to growing violence in Argentina's drug trade, while Chinese mafia groups are active in human smuggling, and Brazilian groups in arms trafficking.
